Lesson 1Hardener selection and resin-to-hardener ratios — stoichiometry, measuring accuracy, and effects of ratio errorsExplore how hardeners control cure speed and final properties. You will learn correct resin-to-hardener ratios, how to measure by weight or volume, mix thoroughly, and recognize, prevent, and troubleshoot ratio and mixing errors.
Stoichiometry basics for two-part resin systemsChoosing slow, medium, or fast hardenersWeighing versus volume measuring techniquesMixing procedures to avoid unmixed streaksSymptoms and fixes for off-ratio resin curesLesson 2Basic first aid and emergency response for resin exposure, skin contact, and inhalationThis section outlines basic first aid and emergency steps for resin exposure. You will learn how to respond to skin and eye contact, inhalation of vapors, accidental ingestion, and large spills, and when to seek professional medical help.
Recognizing early signs of sensitizationImmediate steps for skin and eye exposureResponding to inhalation and breathing issuesHandling accidental ingestion incidentsSpill response, containment, and reportingLesson 3Choosing the right resin system for small-batch crafts: viscosity, working time, yellowing resistance, and food-safety considerationsLearn how to select resin systems for small-batch crafts by comparing viscosity, working and cure times, yellowing resistance, and food-contact safety. Understand labels, certifications, and trade-offs between clarity, hardness, and durability.
Reading resin technical data sheets and labelsViscosity, self-leveling, and bubble releaseWorking time, gel time, and full cure windowsUV stability, yellowing resistance, and clarityFood-contact claims, tests, and safe use limitsLesson 4Comparison of resin types: epoxy, polyester, and UV-curable resins — properties, pot life, cure behavior, and typical applicationsCompare epoxy, polyester, and UV-curable resins for craft use. You will examine odor, toxicity, cure speed, shrinkage, clarity, hardness, and pot life, and match each resin type to molds, coatings, jewelry, and other small-batch projects.
Core chemistry and cure mechanisms overviewPot life, gel time, and exotherm differencesShrinkage, hardness, and brittleness trade-offsOdor, emissions, and relative health hazardsBest-fit applications for each resin familyLesson 5Common additives: pigments (mica, liquid dyes), inks, alcohol inks, glitters, metallic powders — how they interact with resin chemistryDiscover how pigments, dyes, inks, glitters, and metallic powders interact with resin chemistry. You will learn loading limits, dispersion methods, effects on cure, and how to avoid clumping, sinking, or unexpected color shifts.
Differences between dyes, pigments, and inksCompatible versus risky additive chemistriesRecommended loading percentages by typeMixing techniques for streak-free dispersionEffects on cure time, hardness, and clarityLesson 6Safe workspace setup: spill containment, work surface protection, heat sources and fire risks, storage and disposal of resin wasteThis section guides you in setting up a safe resin workspace. You will plan spill containment, protect benches and floors, manage heat sources and fire risks, and store, label, and dispose of resin, solvents, and contaminated waste correctly.
Choosing a suitable room or work areaSpill trays, liners, and surface protectionManaging heat sources and fire ignition risksSafe storage of resins, hardeners, and solventsLabeling, segregation, and waste disposal stepsLesson 7Inclusions and embedding materials: dried flowers, metal charms, paper, fabric — compatibility, sealing, and migration risksUnderstand how to safely embed flowers, metals, paper, and fabrics in resin. You will assess compatibility, pre-dry and seal porous items, prevent color bleed and corrosion, and control buoyancy, bubbles, and long-term migration issues.
Drying and preparing organic inclusionsSealing paper, fabric, and porous surfacesPreventing metal tarnish and corrosion in resinPositioning inclusions and controlling floatAvoiding color bleed and plasticizer migrationLesson 8Personal protective equipment (PPE) and engineering controls: respirators (organic vapor/particulate), nitrile gloves, eye protection, ventilation strategiesLearn how to protect yourself from resin hazards using PPE and engineering controls. This section covers respirator types, glove selection, eye and skin protection, and practical ventilation strategies for small indoor craft spaces.
Identifying key resin health and safety hazardsChoosing and fitting organic vapor respiratorsSelecting gloves, sleeves, and eye protectionLocal exhaust, fans, and airflow patternsHousekeeping and hygiene to reduce exposure
